COUNCILLORS have voted to halt the closure of two primary schools.

Rodmell Primary School and Pells Primary School in Lewes have been earmarked for closure by East Sussex County Council.

But the plans have proved unpopular and caused a backlash among residents, unions and parents.

On Tuesday, Liberal Democrat councillor Carla Butler proposed and won backing for a motion opposing the plans.

Coun Butler said: “The proposed closure of both Pells and Rodmell Schools is a very sad thing to contemplate.

“Like the bus cuts in rural areas, closure of village shops, posts offices and pubs the closure of village schools is yet another nail in the coffin of the vibrancy of our lovely villages in the Downs.

“The effect of these cuts and closures just turns places like Rodmell into dormitory villages."

The plans, were put forward because a shortage of pupils reduced the level of funding both schools receive, with 48 students currently at Rodmell and 88 at Pells in February last year.

The council said it was difficult to recruit new headteachers for Pells which has been without a head since December and Rodmell which needs a new headteacher to start this summer.

Rodmell has too few school-age children in the village and relies on pupils travelling from Lewes or Newhaven.

The closures could still go ahead because East Sussex County Council's cabinet system means a lead member will make the final decision, which is expected later this summer.